Ministry of Communications
Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Supports OSCAR Amateur Radio Convention 2023  in Santiniketan, West Bengal.
The Department of Telecommunications is actively encouraging radio amateurs to engage in the crafting of their own radio equipment and antennas. This initiative aligns with the "Make in India" campaign, promoting self-sufficiency and domestic manufacturing.
[Santiniketan, Bolpur, West Bengal, 24.09.2023]
-The Department of Telecommunications, under the Ministry of Communications, proudly supported the two-day OSCAR Amateur Radio Convention, which commenced on September 23, 2023, at the prestigious Santiniketan in Bolpur, West Bengal. This convention marks a significant milestone, drawing amateur radio enthusiasts, government representatives, school and college students, as well as delegates from the United States and Bangladesh.
Santiniketan, a place of immense cultural and historical importance, was recently recognized as a World Heritage Site by the World Heritage Committee, making it the 41st such site in India to receive this distinguished status. This recognition underscores the commitment to protect and preserve this iconic location from any form of construction, encroachment, or intervention unrelated to maintenance in its vicinity.
The OSCAR Amateur Radio Convention brought together over 200 HAMs  from various backgrounds. The two-day program featured an exciting lineup of sessions and workshops aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of participants. Some of the highlights included:
- HAM Radio Simplified , covering topics such as HFDXing and Amateur Satellite Communications etc.
- Amateur Radio Application Procedures, Reforms, and SaralSanchar.
- Wireless operating licenses and certificates/clearances issued by WPC Wing.
- Understanding Digital Radio by Steve Chafe, KN6TKO, from California.
- Empowering YLs  in Amateur Radio.
- Youth – Wonderland of HAM Radio.
- Meteorology-Satellites-Communication: Issues of concern to Amateur Radio Community.
- Hands-on training and live demonstration of Amateur Satellite communication between Qatar and India using geostationary satellite QO-100.
- Adventure Sports in Amateur Radio 
Also, HAM  Examination conducted by the Eastern Wireless Monitoring HQ at OSCAR Amateur Radio Convention in Kolkata, leading to the award of HAM certificates to successful candidates.
An essential aspect of the convention was the presentation on "Maximizing High Frequency DXing Success: Antennas, Propagation, Etiquette, and Planning" This session aimed to spark interest among school students in HAM radio and encourage them to do experiment in the field of electronics & communications.
In addition to the technical aspects of amateur radio, the convention also addressed recent reforms in the rules and regulations governing amateur radio. Officers from the WPC Wing, DOT, provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of amateur radio operations.
The OSCAR Amateur Radio Convention in Santiniketan has not only enriched the knowledge and skills of amateur radio enthusiasts but has also celebrated the heritage and cultural significance of this remarkable location. The Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, continues to support and encourage such initiatives that promote the growth of amateur radio in India.
BACKGROUND
What is Ham Radio?
Amateur Radio, often referred to as HAM radio, is a captivating hobby and service that unites people. Participants use HAM radio to establish contacts across town, around the world, and even into space, all without relying on the Internet or cell phones. It provides a platform that is not only entertaining but also social, educational, and, importantly, can serve as a lifeline during emergencies and disasters.
All amateur radio operators share a common foundation in radio technology and operating principles. They must pass an examination administered by the Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing  to obtain a license allowing them to operate on radio frequencies known as the "Amateur Bands." These bands are specific radio frequencies allocated by the WPC for the use of ham radio operators.
The Indian Wireless Telegraph  Rules of 1978, along with subsequent amendments, empower the Central Government to establish regulations governing the operation of wireless telegraphs within the amateur service. These rules apply to individuals who have obtained licenses under this legislation and are responsible for maintaining and operating amateur wireless telegraphy services. On a worldwide scale, the Radio Communication Sector of the International Telecommunication Union , a UN organization for Information and Communication Technology , manages the allocation of frequency spectrum and formulates recommendations and reports. In India, the Wireless Planning and Coordination  Wing within the Department of Telecommunications serves as the central agency for ITU-Radio and International Spectrum Management. The WPC Wing represents India and actively participates in ITU Working Party 5A, tasked with crafting recommendations for the amateur and amateur satellite service.
https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-R/study-groups/rsg5/rwp5a/Pages/default.aspx#
Discover the impact by watching testimonials at
- https://www.youtube.com/shorts/NiSBdBA3AWY
- https://www.youtube.com/shorts/sL3mGtOaKQ8
- https://youtu.be/xPjpKxdW7Nk
https://youtu.be/-YK9t9EriA8
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